Herman K, Busbait SA, Chitragari G, Mittal VK, Bhullar JS. Expanding the use of artificial intelligence in non-invasive colorectal cancer screening. Artif Intell Gastroenterol 2026; 7(2): 119658 [DOI: 10.35712/aig.v7.i2.119658]
Corresponding Author of This Article
Jasneet S Bhullar, MD, FACS, FASCRS, Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Providence Hospital, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, 16001 W Nine Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48075, United States. drjsbhullar@gmail.com
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Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence
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review-article
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Herman K, Busbait SA, Chitragari G, Mittal VK, Bhullar JS. Expanding the use of artificial intelligence in non-invasive colorectal cancer screening. Artif Intell Gastroenterol 2026; 7(2): 119658 [DOI: 10.35712/aig.v7.i2.119658]
Artif Intell Gastroenterol. Aug 8, 2026; 7(2): 119658 Published online Aug 8, 2026. doi: 10.35712/aig.v7.i2.119658
Expanding the use of artificial intelligence in non-invasive colorectal cancer screening
Koby Herman, Saleh A Busbait, Gautham Chitragari, Vijay K Mittal, Jasneet S Bhullar
Koby Herman, Saleh A Busbait, Gautham Chitragari, Vijay K Mittal, Jasneet S Bhullar, Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Providence Hospital, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Southfield, MI 48075, United States
Author contributions: All authors made substantial contributions to this manuscript, including the study conception, data collection, analysis of results, and manuscript preparation. All authors reviewed the results and approved the final version of the manuscript.
Conflict-of-interest statement: All the authors report no relevant conflicts of interest for this article.
Corresponding author: Jasneet S Bhullar, MD, FACS, FASCRS, Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Providence Hospital, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, 16001 W Nine Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48075, United States. drjsbhullar@gmail.com
Received: February 3, 2026 Revised: February 25, 2026 Accepted: April 8, 2026 Published online: August 8, 2026 Processing time: 184 Days and 11.5 Hours
Abstract
There is a growing interest in and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve polyp detection during colonoscopy. While colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, there remain significant barriers to achieving population screening goals. Alternative non-invasive screening methods remain important adjuncts, and the use of AI is expanding. A review of the available literature regarding the use of AI in improving colorectal cancer screening using non-invasive methods was performed, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Databases. Researchers are using AI to improve non-invasive colorectal cancer screening tests, including blood-based tests, radiographs, computed tomographic colonography, and capsule endoscopy. Most of these tests, particularly the blood-based and X-ray tests, still lack the necessary sensitivity to be true alternatives to colonoscopy. Breathonomics/metabolomics is evolving as a screening tool with the use of AI. Capsule endoscopy and computed tomographic colonography, already strong alternatives to colonoscopy, are impressively enhanced with the use of AI. AI strengthens non-invasive colorectal cancer screening modalities and shows promise in broadening alternative screening options. The current literature features studies with small sample sizes and retrospective data, limiting the ability to support its reliable application in clinical practice.
Core Tip: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has made a significant impact in the development and/or enhancement of non-invasive colorectal cancer screening methods. AI is improving blood-based and radiographic testing and progressing novel methods like breathonomics. AI-aided colon capsule endoscopy is particularly adept at identifying polyps and precancerous lesions. Further prospective studies remain necessary to clarify its utility in broadening its application in clinical practice.
